FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCHof SANTA MONICA1008 Eleventh Street

Santa Monica, CA 90403www.santamonicaumc.org

310.393.8258email: info@santamonicaumc.org

Church Office Hours: Tues - Fri, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Chapel Open for Prayer: Tues - Fri, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

MAY 5 10 a.m. Sanctuary WorshipHomily by Tricia Guerrero

5 p.m. simple churchreflections by Nathan Oney

MAY 1210 a.m. Sanctuary WorshipMother’s DaySermon by Rev. Patricia Farris

5 p.m. simple churchreflections by Nathan Oney

MAY 1910 a.m. Sanctuary WorshipChoir Recognition SundayHomily by Rev. Patricia Farris

5 p.m. simple churchreflections by Nathan Oney MAY 26 10 a.m. Sanctuary WorshipSermon by Rev. Patricia Farris

5 p.m. simple churchreflections by Nathan Oney

WORSHIP: SUNDAYS IN MAY

@santamonicaumc

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH of SANTA MONICA

S E N T I N E LHORIZONS

vol. cxliv, no. 5 May 2019

“…as welcome as flowers in May” the old Irish song goes. Clearly a song for the northern climes. We in beautiful Southern California have been enjoying Spring flowers for many weeks already. And in the church, we’re living in the season of Eastertide, a 50-day celebration and the church’s most ancient and most joyful time. 50 days to sing alleluia, 50 days to take in the power of the Resurrection, 50 days to live as if God’s reign of justice and peace were fully with us.

As you’ve read in these pages, there’s a lot fermenting in the United Methodist Church these days as well. It’s the “United” part of our name that’s being tested, examined and explored. Sometimes if you type too fast, “united” comes

out as “untied” which is a bit how many of us are feeling.

Our Lay Leadership Team and I will be hosting on-going opportunities to gather for discussion of these developments. It’s still too early to tell what a new iteration of the UMC is going to look like. It’s more a season of seeds germinating in the soil, not quite yet ready to burst forth in full and glorious bloom.

But burst forth they will in due season! I’m working with several groups in our annual conference, the Western Jurisdiction and across the larger church. And I can testify, as did those women who first discovered the empty tomb, that God is doing a new thing within and among us. A beautiful, diverse, inclusive church of love and grace will blossom. One group I’m working with puts it this way: “We…commit ourselves to participate in the coming of God’s dream as we work for a transformed world and a more gracious expression of United Methodism where both fully reflect God’s love and calling in the lives of all people.”

Stay tuned. Pray fervently. Water the seeds. Be the Hope!

Senior Minister

On the WebsiteWe believe that children’s faith is vital as they grow and to the life of the First UMC family. Come explore the many opportunities for your child’s spiritual formation including Sunday School, a monthly Family Devotional, Messy Church, and more.

www.santamonicaumc.org/childrens-ministry

First UMC Spring ConcertFirst UMC is pleased to present Misa Tango by Luis Bacalov, featuring Mariano Dugatkin, bandoneon, and Requiem by John Rutter. Featuring a 60-voice choir, with Barbara Smith, Vera Lugo, William Martinez, Ryan Brown, soloists, and the Los Angeles Concert Orchestra. Dr. James E. Smith will conduct.

The bandoneon is a type of concertina particularly popular in Argentina and Uruguay. It is an essential instrument in most tango ensembles from 1910 onwards. Mariano Dugatkin, from Buenos Aires, Argentina, enjoys international recognition as an award winning composer, bandoneonist, and pianist. His work has been performed at the most prestigious concert halls in Argentina and abroad. He has written music scores for films, commercials, theatre plays and dance shows. As a bandoneonist, Mr. Dugatkin has played with several Tango Orchestras in Argentina such as Esquina Homero Manzi, Piazzolla Tango Show, Che Tango, Tango Porteño, and Señor Tango. Currently he performs for TINTOTANGO in Los Angeles, California. During the week, Mariano Dugatkin is known as “Mr. D” while he enjoys teaching orchestra for the Los Angeles Unified School District Arts Branch at multiple schools.

Suggested Donation at the door: $20; seniors and children under 12, $10. For information call 310-393-8258. Reception to follow performance in Simkins Hall. For more information: www.santamonicaumc.org/music-events. For those who can’t attend Sunday night, you may observe the Concert rehearsal Saturday morning (May 18) at 9 a.m. at no charge. Out of courtesy to the musicians please no cell phones; families with babies/small children may listen from the Narthex.

SPRING CONCERT: Sunday, May 19, 7:30 p.m. in the First UMC Sanctuary / Reception to follow in Simkins Hall

MAY CalendarSaturday, May 4 10 a.m. DanceFit! Room 30012 p.m. Relay for Life begins, Off-siteSunday, May 5 - Confirmation Sunday, Holy Communion11 a.m. Preschool Spring Fair, Courtyard/Simkins HallTuesday, May 7 7 p.m. Open Space Monthly Gathering, Off-siteWednesday, May 812:10 p.m. Mid-Week Recital/Reception, S/FR (season final)Friday, May 10 7 p.m. Shareringers Monthly Gathering, Fireside RoomSaturday, May 11 4:30 p.m. Messy Church, Chapel/Simkins HallSunday, May 12 - Mother’s Day, Methodist Foundation Scholarship Applications due6 p.m. simple supper, Fireside RoomSaturday, May 18 9 a.m. Spring Concert Rehearsal, Sanctuary9:30 a.m. Prayer Quilt Workparty, Room 300Sunday, May 1911 a.m. Free Blood Pressure Screenings, Simkins Hall3 p.m. Walk the Labyrinth, Simkins Hall6 p.m. UMYF End-of-Year Banquet, Off-site7:30 p.m. First UMC Spring Concert/Reception, S/SHThursday, May 235:30 p.m. Family Place Community Meal, Off-siteSaturday, May 25 10 p.m. DanceFit! Room 300Sunday, May 26 - Faith in Action11:15 a.m. General Conference Report Back, Fireside RoomMonday, May 27 - Memorial Day, church campus closedCOMMITTEE MEETINGSSaturday, May 4 10 a.m. Open Space Leadership Training, 2nd Fl. Edu. Bldg.Tuesday, May 7 7 p.m. Staff-Parish Relations Committee Meeting, CR-AWednesday, May 8 4 p.m. Board of Trustees Meeting, CR-ASUNDAYS-AT-A-GLANCE9 a.m. Lectionary Scripture Discussion, Fireside Room 9 a.m. Partnership with God Sunday School, Room 101 9:30 a.m. Nursery Care, Room 204 9:30 a.m. Chancel Choir Warmup, Choir Room10 a.m. Worship, Sanctuary 10:10 a.m. Sunday School, Education Bldg.11 a.m. Fellowship, Simkins Hall in The Shelby Center5 p.m. simple church, Chapel6 p.m. UMYF Meeting, Youth Lounge

Family Place Community MealCommunity Meal is a committed partnership between First UMC and Upward Bound House’s Family Place–our local transitional housing program for families with young children. Through the ministry of feeding and the ministry of showing up, First UMC volunteers engage in activities that create lasting impact and joy. If you would like to be a part of this meaningful mission, please contact the church office (310) 393-8258, or email meal@santamonicaumc.org. You can help by cooking or donating a meal, side, salad, or dessert or by volunteering to lead a craft or other fun activity for the kids. Thursday, May 23, 5:30 p.m. Family Place (1020 12th St. SM)

simple suppersimple supper is a simple church monthly potluck. Sharing a meal has always been a holy act of hospitality and of fellowship, and there is no reason to make it complicated; bring a dish to share, eat, and enjoy. There is no need to RSVP, all are welcome, and we will celebrate with those who are present.

Sunday, May 12, 6 p.m. in the Fireside Room (after simple church)

May Mid-Week RecitalThe 2019 Recital series ends David York, organ. A native of the Pacific Northwest, David York graduated with honors from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma Washington, and completed a Master’s Degree in Organ Performance at the University of Southern California. He has served as Minister of Music at Lutheran Church of the Master in Los Angeles since September 2009. Prior to this, he has been Director of Music at several churches in Southern California including First Presbyterian, San Pedro and St. Luke’s Episcopal, Long Beach. David is organist at Temple Israel in Long Beach and a Lecturer in Music on the faculty of the Bob Cole School of Music, California State University Long Beach.For the full list of 2019 Recitals and to view past recital videos, go to: www.santamonicaumc.org/mid-week-recital-series.

Wednesday, May 8, 12:10 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Reception to follow in the Fireside Room. Free admission.

DanceFit!Join us twice a month for DanceFit, a class inspired by... you guessed it, fitness focused dance! DanceFit is a follow-along fitness class set to upbeat, contemporary pop music. It’s designed for all levels, with variations to modify based on your fitness / comfort level. Join us for our next class! Water will be available. No charge but donations appreciated. Kids are welcome. Tell your friends! Saturdays, May 4 & 25, 10 - 11 a.m. in Room 300

Confirmation SundaySince February 10, the Confirmation Class has been preparing in an 8-week class with Tricia Guerrero, Director of Children and Youth Ministry. Confirmation class provides the opportunity for youth to explore Christianity and their faith. They are invited to ask, “Where do I belong?” and “What do I believe?” Confirmation class concludes with Confirmation Sunday worship service, where the youth confirm their faith and become members of the church.

Sunday, May 5, during Worship

Relay for LifeThe Health Ministry Council is excited to announce that this year First UMC will be supporting the American Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life at Drake Stadium at UCLA. Relay for Life strives to bring communities together to remember loved ones lost, honor survivors of all cancers, and raise money to help the American Cancer Society make a global impact on cancer. The Health Ministry Council supports this cause for all these important reasons. A special event on Saturday night is the Luminaria walk - to remember those we’ve lost, celebrate cancer survivors, and show everyone affected by cancer that we are the light in the darkness.  You may walk at any time for any length during the 24-hour event. For more information visit: www.santamonicaumc.org/health-ministry, click on the Relay for Life link, and search for our team Wesley Walkers to find First UMC’s page. Contact Debi Jenkinson at 310-337-7626 or debijwong@yahoo.com for more information. Saturday, May 4, 12 p.m. - Sunday May 5, 12 p.m., UCLA Drake Stadium

Preschool Spring FairCome to the FirstUMC Preschool Spring Fair for great fun for the whole family! Featuring moon bounces, arts & crafts, pony rides, petting zoo, and taco stand. Bake your best pie to compete in the annual Pie Contest! Proceeds from the Fair go to funding Preschool programs, scholarships and school improvements. Activity wristbands $18, Taco plate $8.Sunday, May 5, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the Courtyard

May Messy Church - Mothers & OthersThe theme for May is “Mothers and Others.” We’ll celebrate those who love and care for us and learn how Jesus taught us to look after one another. As we explore the theme of caring, we’ll discover that kindness and patience help us to follow Jesus and his way of love. Dinner will include a birthday cake as we celebrate Messy Church’s 3-year anniversary! At Messy Church, we grow in our relationship with God and with one another through crafts, activities, music, and stories of God’s love. Then, together we enjoy a shared meal. Be ready to get messy! Sign up to receive monthly Messy Church reminder emails and news: www.santamonicaumc.org/messychurch.

Saturday, May 11, 4:30 - 6 p.m. Chapel/Simkins Hall

Methodist Foundation ScholarshipsAttention students! The deadline for the annual Methodist Foundation Scholarships is coming soon. Applications are found online: www.santamonicaumc.org/methodistfoundation. Deadline for applications: Sunday, May 12.

Calling All GraduatesFirst UMC wants to recognize all its graduates. Let us know where you’re graduating from, your major, and what your future plans are. Deadline May 15.Contact Sarah Rold in the church office: (310-393-8258 x 106 or s.rold@santamonicaumc.org)

BIG & small Animal Art Group Exhibit Returns in the Fall!The 3rd Annual Animal Art Show is in the works. Our theme this year is Take Flight. Exhibit opens Saturday, October 5 – immediately after the annual Blessing of the Animals in the Courtyard, and will run for a month.Attention Artists: Show us your version of God’s flying creatures, big and small.Fill out an artist submission form online to participate. Go to: www.santamonicaumc.org/firesideroomart. Feel free to share with your artist friends. Questions may be sent to Shalimar Carducci s.carducci@santamonicaumc.org.

LOOKING FORWARD

General Conference Update with Rev. Farris and Our Lay Leadership TeamJoin Rev. Farris for a second review of recent General Conference news, reporting with updates from the West District Conference. 

Sunday, May 26, 11:15 a.m. in the Fireside Room Rev. Farris at the first GC review

MAY CalendarSaturday, May 4 10 a.m. DanceFit! Room 30012 p.m. Relay for Life begins, Off-siteSunday, May 5 - Confirmation Sunday, Holy Communion11 a.m. Preschool Spring Fair, Courtyard/Simkins HallTuesday, May 7 7 p.m. Open Space Monthly Gathering, Off-siteWednesday, May 812:10 p.m. Mid-Week Recital/Reception, S/FR (season final)Friday, May 10 7 p.m. Shareringers Monthly Gathering, Fireside RoomSaturday, May 11 4:30 p.m. Messy Church, Chapel/Simkins HallSunday, May 12 - Mother’s Day, Methodist Foundation Scholarship Applications due6 p.m. simple supper, Fireside RoomSaturday, May 18 9 a.m. Spring Concert Rehearsal, Sanctuary9:30 a.m. Prayer Quilt Workparty, Room 300Sunday, May 1911 a.m. Free Blood Pressure Screenings, Simkins Hall3 p.m. Walk the Labyrinth, Simkins Hall6 p.m. UMYF End-of-Year Banquet, Off-site7:30 p.m. First UMC Spring Concert/Reception, S/SHThursday, May 235:30 p.m. Family Place Community Meal, Off-siteSaturday, May 25 10 p.m. DanceFit! Room 300Sunday, May 26 - Faith in Action11:15 a.m. General Conference Report Back, Fireside RoomMonday, May 27 - Memorial Day, church campus closedCOMMITTEE MEETINGSSaturday, May 4 10 a.m. Open Space Leadership Training, 2nd Fl. Edu. Bldg.Tuesday, May 7 7 p.m. Staff-Parish Relations Committee Meeting, CR-AWednesday, May 8 4 p.m. Board of Trustees Meeting, CR-ASUNDAYS-AT-A-GLANCE9 a.m. Lectionary Scripture Discussion, Fireside Room 9 a.m. Partnership with God Sunday School, Room 101 9:30 a.m. Nursery Care, Room 204 9:30 a.m. Chancel Choir Warmup, Choir Room10 a.m. Worship, Sanctuary 10:10 a.m. Sunday School, Education Bldg.11 a.m. Fellowship, Simkins Hall in The Shelby Center5 p.m. simple church, Chapel6 p.m. UMYF Meeting, Youth Lounge

Family Place Community MealCommunity Meal is a committed partnership between First UMC and Upward Bound House’s Family Place–our local transitional housing program for families with young children. Through the ministry of feeding and the ministry of showing up, First UMC volunteers engage in activities that create lasting impact and joy. If you would like to be a part of this meaningful mission, please contact the church office (310) 393-8258, or email meal@santamonicaumc.org. You can help by cooking or donating a meal, side, salad, or dessert or by volunteering to lead a craft or other fun activity for the kids. Thursday, May 23, 5:30 p.m. Family Place (1020 12th St. SM)

simple suppersimple supper is a simple church monthly potluck. Sharing a meal has always been a holy act of hospitality and of fellowship, and there is no reason to make it complicated; bring a dish to share, eat, and enjoy. There is no need to RSVP, all are welcome, and we will celebrate with those who are present.

Sunday, May 12, 6 p.m. in the Fireside Room (after simple church)

May Mid-Week RecitalThe 2019 Recital series ends with David York, organ. A native of the Pacific Northwest, David York graduated with honors from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma Washington, and completed a Master’s Degree in Organ Performance at the University of Southern California. He has served as Minister of Music at Lutheran Church of the Master in Los Angeles since September 2009. Prior to this, he has been Director of Music at several churches in Southern California including First Presbyterian, San Pedro and St. Luke’s Episcopal, Long Beach. David is organist at Temple Israel in Long Beach and a Lecturer in Music on the faculty of the Bob Cole School of Music, California State University Long Beach.For the full list of 2019 Recitals and to view past recital videos, go to: www.santamonicaumc.org/mid-week-recital-series.

Wednesday, May 8, 12:10 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Reception to follow in the Fireside Room. Free admission.

DanceFit!Join us twice a month for DanceFit, a class inspired by... you guessed it, fitness focused dance! DanceFit is a follow-along fitness class set to upbeat, contemporary pop music. It’s designed for all levels, with variations to modify based on your fitness / comfort level. Join us for our next class! Water will be available. No charge but donations appreciated. Kids are welcome. Tell your friends! Saturdays, May 4 & 25, 10 - 11 a.m. in Room 300

Confirmation SundaySince February 10, the Confirmation Class has been preparing in an 8-week class with Tricia Guerrero, Director of Children and Youth Ministry. Confirmation class provides the opportunity for youth to explore Christianity and their faith. They are invited to ask, “Where do I belong?” and “What do I believe?” Confirmation class concludes with Confirmation Sunday worship service, where the youth confirm their faith and become members of the church.

Sunday, May 5, during Worship

Relay for LifeThe Health Ministry Council is excited to announce that this year First UMC will be supporting the American Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life at Drake Stadium at UCLA. Relay for Life strives to bring communities together to remember loved ones lost, honor survivors of all cancers, and raise money to help the American Cancer Society make a global impact on cancer. The Health Ministry Council supports this cause for all these important reasons. A special event on Saturday night is the Luminaria walk - to remember those we’ve lost, celebrate cancer survivors, and show everyone affected by cancer that we are the light in the darkness.  You may walk at any time for any length during the 24-hour event. For more information visit: www.santamonicaumc.org/health-ministry, click on the Relay for Life link, and search for our team Wesley Walkers to find First UMC’s page. Contact Debi Jenkinson at 310-337-7626 or debijwong@yahoo.com for more information. Saturday, May 4, 12 p.m. - Sunday May 5, 12 p.m., UCLA Drake Stadium

Preschool Spring FairCome to the FirstUMC Preschool Spring Fair for great fun for the whole family! Featuring moon bounces, arts & crafts, pony rides, petting zoo, and taco stand. Bake your best pie to compete in the annual Pie Contest! Proceeds from the Fair go to funding Preschool programs, scholarships and school improvements. Activity wristbands $18, Taco plate $8.Sunday, May 5, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the Courtyard

May Messy Church - Mothers & OthersThe theme for May is “Mothers and Others.” We’ll celebrate those who love and care for us and learn how Jesus taught us to look after one another. As we explore the theme of caring, we’ll discover that kindness and patience help us to follow Jesus and his way of love. Dinner will include a birthday cake as we celebrate Messy Church’s 3-year anniversary! At Messy Church, we grow in our relationship with God and with one another through crafts, activities, music, and stories of God’s love. Then, together we enjoy a shared meal. Be ready to get messy! Sign up to receive monthly Messy Church reminder emails and news: www.santamonicaumc.org/messychurch.

Saturday, May 11, 4:30 - 6 p.m. Chapel/Simkins Hall

Methodist Foundation ScholarshipsAttention students! The deadline for the annual Methodist Foundation Scholarships is coming soon. Applications are found online: www.santamonicaumc.org/methodistfoundation. Deadline for applications: Sunday, May 12.

Calling All GraduatesFirst UMC wants to recognize all its graduates. Let us know where you’re graduating from, your major, and what your future plans are. Deadline May 15.Contact Sarah Rold in the church office: (310-393-8258 x 106 or s.rold@santamonicaumc.org)

BIG & small Animal Art Group Exhibit Returns in the Fall!The 3rd Annual Animal Art Show is in the works. Our theme this year is Take Flight. Exhibit opens Saturday, October 5 – immediately after the annual Blessing of the Animals in the Courtyard, and will run for a month.Attention Artists: Show us your version of God’s flying creatures, big and small.Fill out an artist submission form online to participate. Go to: www.santamonicaumc.org/firesideroomart. Feel free to share with your artist friends. Questions may be sent to Shalimar Carducci s.carducci@santamonicaumc.org.

LOOKING FORWARD

General Conference Update with Rev. Farris and Our Lay Leadership TeamJoin Rev. Farris for a second review of recent General Conference news, reporting with updates from the West District Conference. 

Sunday, May 26, 11:15 a.m. in the Fireside Room Rev. Farris at the first GC review

Preschool Corner

Births• Tyrell Harold Marcos Birkeland, born February 18 to First UMC members Kade Birkeland and Noelia Marcos.• Stella Prescilla Hovey, born April 5 to First UMC members Doug and Melissa Hovey and big sister Sonia.

DeathsWe extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of these departed loved ones:• First UMC member Neil Theodore Hammond, who died April 7.

In April we announced the passing of Michael Ramljak. Michael was a weekend sexton here at First UMC for about 5 years in the early 2000s. A memorial service was held at the family farm.

First UMC member Adam Guerrero remembers Michael as “a very helpful guy who was always willing to be of assistance around the church campus. He was especially helpful during youth groups as he prepped what we needed for the night from setting up the rooms for dinner to supplies we needed for games like Mayhem. He was friendly with our youth and had a good relationship with many of them over the years.”

Congratulations• First UMC member Chelsea Kirtley and Ken Simms, who were married April 20.

Flower OrdersAvailable dates at press time: May 12, 19, 26.Order at the Sunday Hospitality Table or online: santamonicaumc.org/flower-fund.

FIRST UMC HAPPENINGS AT FIRST UMC

Save the date! Join First UMC and the Fellowship & Events Ministry in welcoming the Summer season. Fun for the whole family, including food, cake walk, bounce house and more!

Sunday June 2, immediately after 10 a.m. Worship service

All-Church Summerfest

Carol Greenwood (seated) speaking about her late husband Carl Greenwood’s paintings on March 31 in the Fireside Room. Proceeds from sales were donated to the church.

Holy Week 2019

Maundy Thursday service

Good Friday Mid-Day Service at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, with (left) Drew Stever, Vicar, Rev. Patricia Farris, and Rev. Jim Boline, Pastor

Palm Sunday Service

A fun time was had by all at the First UMC Preschool 70th Anniversary Party, featuring a 1940s theme, swing dancing and a talent show.

Easter Celebration Service

Easter Sunrise Serviceat Palisades Park

Thank you to photographers Adam Guerrero, Joyce Landsverk, Emily Payne, Dane Rold, Allan Walker

Preschool Corner

Births• Tyrell Harold Marcos Birkeland, born February 18 to First UMC members Kade Birkeland and Noelia Marcos.• Stella Prescilla Hovey, born April 5 to First UMC members Doug and Melissa Hovey and big sister Sonia.

DeathsWe extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of these departed loved ones:• First UMC member Neil Theodore Hammond, who died April 7.

In April we announced the passing of Michael Ramljak. Michael was a weekend sexton here at First UMC for about 5 years in the early 2000s. A memorial service was held at the family farm.

First UMC member Adam Guerrero remembers Michael as “a very helpful guy who was always willing to be of assistance around the church campus. He was especially helpful during youth groups as he prepped what we needed for the night from setting up the rooms for dinner to supplies we needed for games like Mayhem. He was friendly with our youth and had a good relationship with many of them over the years.”

Congratulations• First UMC member Chelsea Kirtley and Ken Simms, who were married April 20.

Flower OrdersAvailable dates at press time: May 12, 19, 26.Order at the Sunday Hospitality Table or online: santamonicaumc.org/flower-fund.

FIRST UMC HAPPENINGS AT FIRST UMC

Save the date! Join First UMC and the Fellowship & Events Ministry in welcoming the Summer season. Fun for the whole family, including food, cake walk, bounce house and more!

Sunday June 2, immediately after 10 a.m. Worship service

All-Church Summerfest

Carol Greenwood (seated) speaking about her late husband Carl Greenwood’s paintings on March 31 in the Fireside Room. Proceeds from sales were donated to the church.

Holy Week 2019

Maundy Thursday service

Good Friday Mid-Day Service at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, with (left) Drew Stever, Vicar, Rev. Patricia Farris, and Rev. Jim Boline, Pastor

Palm Sunday Service

A fun time was had by all at the First UMC Preschool 70th Anniversary Party, featuring a 1940s theme, swing dancing and a talent show.

Easter Celebration Service

Easter Sunrise Serviceat Palisades Park

Thank you to photographers Adam Guerrero, Joyce Landsverk, Emily Payne, Dane Rold, Allan Walker

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCHof SANTA MONICA1008 Eleventh Street

Santa Monica, CA 90403www.santamonicaumc.org

310.393.8258email: info@santamonicaumc.org

Church Office Hours: Tues - Fri, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.Chapel Open for Prayer: Tues - Fri, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

MAY 5 10 a.m. Sanctuary WorshipHomily by Tricia Guerrero

5 p.m. simple churchreflections by Nathan Oney

MAY 1210 a.m. Sanctuary WorshipMother’s DaySermon by Rev. Patricia Farris

5 p.m. simple churchreflections by Nathan Oney

MAY 1910 a.m. Sanctuary WorshipChoir Recognition SundayHomily by Rev. Patricia Farris

5 p.m. simple churchreflections by Nathan Oney MAY 26 10 a.m. Sanctuary WorshipSermon by Rev. Patricia Farris

5 p.m. simple churchreflections by Nathan Oney

WORSHIP: SUNDAYS IN MAY

@santamonicaumc

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH of SANTA MONICA

S E N T I N E LHORIZONS

vol. cxliv, no. 5 May 2019

“…as welcome as flowers in May” the old Irish song goes. Clearly a song for the northern climes. We in beautiful Southern California have been enjoying Spring flowers for many weeks already. And in the church, we’re living in the season of Eastertide, a 50-day celebration and the church’s most ancient and most joyful time. 50 days to sing alleluia, 50 days to take in the power of the Resurrection, 50 days to live as if God’s reign of justice and peace were fully with us.

As you’ve read in these pages, there’s a lot fermenting in the United Methodist Church these days as well. It’s the “United” part of our name that’s being tested, examined and explored. Sometimes if you type too fast, “united” comes

out as “untied” which is a bit how many of us are feeling.

Our Lay Leadership Team and I will be hosting on-going opportunities to gather for discussion of these developments. It’s still too early to tell what a new iteration of the UMC is going to look like. It’s more a season of seeds germinating in the soil, not quite yet ready to burst forth in full and glorious bloom.

But burst forth they will in due season! I’m working with several groups in our annual conference, the Western Jurisdiction and across the larger church. And I can testify, as did those women who first discovered the empty tomb, that God is doing a new thing within and among us. A beautiful, diverse, inclusive church of love and grace will blossom. One group I’m working with puts it this way: “We…commit ourselves to participate in the coming of God’s dream as we work for a transformed world and a more gracious expression of United Methodism where both fully reflect God’s love and calling in the lives of all people.”

Stay tuned. Pray fervently. Water the seeds. Be the Hope!

Senior Minister

On the WebsiteWe believe that children’s faith is vital as they grow and to the life of the First UMC family. Come explore the many opportunities for your child’s spiritual formation including Sunday School, a monthly Family Devotional, Messy Church, and more.

www.santamonicaumc.org/childrens-ministry

First UMC Spring ConcertFirst UMC is pleased to present Misa Tango by Luis Bacalov, featuring Mariano Dugatkin, bandoneon, and Requiem by John Rutter. Featuring a 60-voice choir, with Barbara Smith, Vera Lugo, William Martinez, Ryan Brown, soloists, and the Los Angeles Concert Orchestra. Dr. James E. Smith will conduct.

The bandoneon is a type of concertina particularly popular in Argentina and Uruguay. It is an essential instrument in most tango ensembles from 1910 onwards. Mariano Dugatkin, from Buenos Aires, Argentina, enjoys international recognition as an award winning composer, bandoneonist, and pianist. His work has been performed at the most prestigious concert halls in Argentina and abroad. He has written music scores for films, commercials, theatre plays and dance shows. As a bandoneonist, Mr. Dugatkin has played with several Tango Orchestras in Argentina such as Esquina Homero Manzi, Piazzolla Tango Show, Che Tango, Tango Porteño, and Señor Tango. Currently he performs for TINTOTANGO in Los Angeles, California. During the week, Mariano Dugatkin is known as “Mr. D” while he enjoys teaching orchestra for the Los Angeles Unified School District Arts Branch at multiple schools.

Suggested Donation at the door: $20; seniors and children under 12, $10. For information call 310-393-8258. Reception to follow performance in Simkins Hall. For more information: www.santamonicaumc.org/music-events. For those who can’t attend Sunday night, you may observe the Concert rehearsal Saturday morning (May 18) at 9 a.m. at no charge. Out of courtesy to the musicians please no cell phones; families with babies/small children may listen from the Narthex.

SPRING CONCERT: Sunday, May 19, 7:30 p.m. in the First UMC Sanctuary / Reception to follow in Simkins Hall